The old saying is true – you are what you eat. A healthy diet provides the nutrients that your body needs, can increase your energy levels & improve overall health. Food from each of these food groups every day will help better your nutrition:
- Fruit, naturally low in fat, sodium and calories. None have cholesterol and is a source of many essential nutrients, including potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin C and folic acid.
- Vegetables, can reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, obesity and type 2 diabetes. Make half of your plate fruits and vegetables.
- Grains, make half of your grains whole because they are a source of many nutrients including dietary fiber, B vitamins & minerals. These are important for your blood, bones and muscles.
- Protein, foods includes meat, seafood and poultry, as well as eggs, beans, peas, soy products, nuts and seeds. Continues to be the building block for bones, muscles, skin and blood.
- Dairy, milk products such as foods made from milk and calcium-fortified soy milk. Dairy products are linked not only to improved bone health but also to lower blood pressure in adults and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
Tips For Buying Healthy Groceries on a Budget
- Clipping coupons or purchasing items that are on sale.
- Buy fruits and vegetables that are in season, as they often cost less and are fresher.
- Locate the “unit price” on the shelf below the product. Compare brands/different sizes of the same brand to determine which is more economical.
- Purchase items in bulk, such as frozen fruits and vegetables that will keep longer than fresh food.
- Reduce waste by using food with the earliest expiration first. When you buy food at the store, check the sell by date to get the freshest food possible.
